Anyone who’s ever had to wait for a delivery to show up understands it can be an irritating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a central piece of HVAC equipment such as a new furnace or air conditioner. With backlogs and supply shortages, many people are waiting weeks for their new HVAC system to be installed. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with a service like furnace installation in Newark, it may be a good idea to order now.
These shortages are a result of several problems along the supply chain. We’ll review how these issues have affected the HVAC industry as well as what you can do to reduce the impact.
Why Is There an HVAC Product Shortage?
Popular HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Usually this is a good thing for homeowners, as this means more effective heating and cooling. But recent problems in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be manufactured and shipped. There are several reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is delayed, including:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As workers continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and additional safety precautions have somewhat contributed to the backlog. A few extra days here and there accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are designed for optimal efficiency and may take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials change. While companies set up alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs have made steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals including steel and copper are crucial for quality HVAC equipment. Key materials also include plastics and even finished electronics like microchips and semiconductors. These two components are especially scarce.
- Worker Shortage: As industries start back up, they’re also experiencing a shortage of workers in comparison to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also require time to train to ensure they provide dependable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these issues have slowed down the gears of the HVAC industry. As equipment takes longer to arrive, people sometimes have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Thankfully, you still have options for reducing delays.
4 Ways to Reduce the Impact of HVAC Product Shortages
Are you actively searching for new HVAC equipment? Or do you just want to avoid being left without heat or air conditioning? Whatever your reasons are, there are things you can do to minimize how the HVAC product shortage impacts you.
- Stay on top of routine maintenance: Services like preventive air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make in your HVAC system. Components remain in better shape, which means more consistent performance and a lower risk of problems.
- Watch for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown could leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for loud sounds and monitor your energy bill for evidence the HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to install a new furnace or air conditioner, it may be a good idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with existing supply chain issues, you’re more likely to receive your new equipment when you actually need it.
- Explore alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is facing a shortage, researching alternatives might open up additional options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more choices for high-efficiency HVAC systems than ever.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC experts at Luikart Heating & Cooling want to help reduce your wait times for a new furnace or air conditioner. If you’re thinking about new or replacement installation, it’s a good idea to get started soon. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at 740-200-5591.